Shettima heads to Benin to represent Tinubu at Wadagni inauguration

Vice President Kashim Shettima on Saturday departed Abuja for Cotonou, the Republic of Benin, to represent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the inauguration of President-elect Romuald Wadagni.

The ceremony, scheduled for Sunday, will see Wadagni formally assume office as President of Benin Republic for a seven-year constitutional term.

The Vice President is expected to join other African and international leaders at the inauguration events, which will be held at the Presidential Palace in Cotonou and other designated venues in Porto-Novo, the country’s capital.

According to a statement issued by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, the event marks a significant political transition in Benin and aligns with Nigeria’s continuing diplomatic engagement within the West African sub-region.

At the swearing-in ceremony, Wadagni is expected to take the oath of office in Porto-Novo, while his running mate, Mariam Chabi Talata, will also be sworn in as Vice President.

Official inauguration activities in Benin traditionally include the formal transfer of power and presentation of presidential insignia at the Presidential Palace in Cotonou, followed by a ceremonial motorcade procession to the Charles de Gaulle Stadium in Porto-Novo.

The statement noted that Nigeria and Benin Republic maintain longstanding historical, cultural and economic relations, with both countries sharing common interests in trade, border security and energy cooperation.

It added that the administration of President Tinubu has remained committed to promoting peace, stability and deeper regional integration within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), despite challenges confronting the bloc.

The Presidency described regional stability and cooperation as critical priorities in Nigeria’s foreign policy engagement with neighbouring countries.

Shettima, who travelled with senior aides and top government officials, is expected back in the country after the engagement in Benin Republic.